TWO YEARS IN PRISON FOR DRUG DEALER

8:50am Wednesday 27th August 2008

A SAMURAI sword-wielding drug dealer has been jailed for two years.

Liam Darren Abbott, 22, of Grampian Way, pleaded guilty to possession of crack cocaine with intent to supply at Chester Crown Court.

Police searched Abbott’s home after he roused suspicions by wielding a samurai sword in a fast food outlet.

During the search officers discovered a bag containing white crystals, which was later found to be crack cocaine.

Insp Dave Snasdell, from Winsford NPU, said Abbott’s imprisonment would make the streets of Winsford a safer place.

“Some years ago he was issued with an ASBO due to his unacceptable behaviour in the community,” he said.

“He has continued to offend throughout that order and this has culminated in an offence to supply Class A drugs in the community.

“The sentence will hopefully show him that the courts won’t accept that sort of behaviour and the community of Winsford will now have some relief for a number of months while he’s in custody.”

Abbott was also charged with possession of an offensive weapon and breach of his ASBO, both of which were ordered to lie on file.

The judge also made an order for the drugs to be destroyed during the sentencing on Friday, August 15.

Insp Snasdell added: “Drug dealing is a serious problem and the sentence received by Abbott shows that the courts and the police take a dim view of anyone who becomes involved in the supply of illegal substances.

“Police in Winsford will continue to target known drug dealers and will respond to information supplied by the public with regards to drugs related activity.

“Drug use and addiction is a major contributing factor to other types of crime, including theft, burglary and violence, and while we are committed to doing what we can to reduce these issues we rely on the community to be our eyes and ears and inform us of any illegal activity.”

If you have any information call Cheshire Police on 0845 4580000 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.